According to an NBA press release, the ruling is "based on the Commissioner's conclusion that Mr. Sterling violated league rules through his expressions of offensive and hurtful views, the impact of which has been widely felt throughout the league."

The $2.5 million fine money will be donated to "organizations dedicated to anti-discrimination and tolerance efforts that will be jointly selected by the NBA and the Players Association."

"As part of the lifetime ban, Mr. Sterling may not attend any NBA games or practices, be present at any Clippers office or facility, or participate in any business or player personnel decisions involving the team," the announcement states. "He will also be barred from attending NBA Board of Governors meetings and participating in any other league activity."

Silver also announced he will urge the NBA Board of Governors to force a sale of the basketball team.

The NBA ruling comes just days after Sterling was allegedly caught on tape ranting about African Americans and other racial minorities to his female companion V. Stiviano. Following today's ruling, the Clippers said in a team statement, "We wholeheartedly support and embrace the decision by the NBA and Commissioner Adam Silver today. Now the healing process begins."